Bhatkal: In a grand display of devotion, thousands of Shiva devotees undertook an 18-kilometer barefoot pilgrimage from the Choleswara Temple in Bhatkal to the world-renowned Murdeshwar Shiva Temple, seeking blessings on the auspicious occasion of Mahashivratri.

Ranjan Indane Gas Agency has been organizing this padayatra from Bhatkal to Murdeshwar for the past 15 years, with the number of participants increasing each year. With the Murdeshwar Temple now opening for darshan at 4 AM in the last two years, this year, over a thousand devotees gathered at Choleswara Temple between 1 AM and 2 AM on Wednesday to seek blessings before commencing their journey. The pilgrimage route passed through Shri Channapatna Hanuman Temple, Marigudi Temple, the town’s main road, the old bus stand, and National Highway-66, covering Venkatapur, Shirali, Sardahole, and Basti before reaching Murdeshwar.

Along the way, additional devotees joined the padayatra, making it a massive spiritual procession. To assist the devotees, arrangements were made to provide drinking water, fruits, and fresh juices throughout the journey. The Kriyasheel Geleyara Balaga group also distributed lemon juice and fruits to the pilgrims at Kaikini Basti as part of the Mahashivratri celebrations.

For safety measures, the event organizers had arranged an ambulance service to address any medical emergencies. Upon reaching Murdeshwar, all devotees were given a direct opportunity for darshan without long waiting times. After receiving blessings, the devotees were served light refreshments before boarding buses arranged for their return to Bhatkal.

The annual padayatra continues to be a significant religious event, uniting devotees in their unwavering faith and devotion towards Lord Shiva.